Newcastle United are actively scouting Werder Bremen's emerging talent Nick Woltemade as manager Eddie Howe looks to bolster his attacking options in the upcoming transfer window, The Independent understands.
The 22-year-old German forward has emerged as a potential target for the Magpies, who are seeking to provide additional support and competition for their prolific striker Alexander Isak. Woltemade's current contract with the Bundesliga club is set to expire at the end of the season, making him an increasingly attractive prospect for Premier League sides.
Versatile Attacking Option
Woltemade's versatility is believed to be a significant factor in Newcastle's interest. The young German has demonstrated his capability to operate effectively across multiple forward positions, including as a central striker, secondary striker, and even in a deeper attacking midfield role.
This tactical flexibility aligns perfectly with Howe's preferred system, which often requires attackers to interchange positions and contribute to various phases of play. His physical presence at 6ft 4in tall also offers a different dimension to Newcastle's attacking play, potentially providing an aerial threat that could complement Isak's technical prowess.
Contract Situation Creates Opportunity
With Woltemade's contract situation becoming increasingly pressing for Werder Bremen, Newcastle are monitoring developments closely. The German club faces the difficult decision of either securing their academy product to a new long-term deal or considering a sale in the January window to avoid losing him for free in the summer.
This scenario has alerted several clubs across Europe, but Newcastle's recruitment team have identified Woltemade as a potentially shrewd acquisition who could develop further within their project. His potential availability on a favourable transfer makes him an appealing option compared to more established, expensive targets.
Howe's Search for attacking Depth
Eddie Howe has consistently emphasised the need for greater depth in attacking areas to maintain competitiveness across multiple competitions. While Callum Wilson provides experienced cover for Isak, injuries have frequently disrupted Newcastle's season, highlighting the need for additional quality options.
Woltemade represents the profile of player that Newcastle's recruitment strategy has focused on in recent windows: young, with potential for development, and available at reasonable value. His Bundesliga experience, though not yet at elite level, provides a solid foundation for adaptation to Premier League football.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Newcastle formalise their interest with a concrete offer, but the Magpies are certainly doing their due diligence on a player who could offer both immediate squad depth and long-term potential.
